Natural Resource students host speakers

Wednesday

Feb 19, 2014 at 5:55 AM

Heat pump, rebates, amortization, careers … these were just some of the topics shared with natural resource students on Feb. 12.

Jeremy Lang of Enertech Global explained to the students the economics of Btu’s in heating and cooling. The students had studied the concept and components in ground source heat pump or GSHP systems. Lang pointed out the utility companies’ statutory obligation to reduce energy use by 20 percent within six years. Geothermal systems qualify for utility company rebates, a 30 percent federal tax credit and a 6 percent state tax credit. The financial incentives drastically reduce initial cost, and the remaining cost can be paid with fuel savings amortized over five to six years.

In addition, geothermal systems reduce carbon dioxide emission. Students were surprised to learn that in Sweden 85 percent of buildings utilize geothermal, compared to the United States, which is around 1.7 percent.

Martin Fox and Denny Miller, C & K Heating & Cooling, Plumbing, & Geothermal Company of Ames also presented career opportunities in HVAC, sheet metal and related technical career areas to the students.